The Wine Goddess & The Chopping Block Present:
The Master Wine Class Series!

The Chopping Block is happy to announce the resurgence of the Master Wine Class series to the upcoming fall schedule. Back by popular demand, the series was designed for those students who’ve already taken The Chopping Block’s regular wine class series, or for those wishing to take their wine moxie to the master level. Learn from some of Chicago land’s keenest wine minds on the subjects of Sake, Wine Flaws, and the great wines of Spain and Argentina. Be advised, the Master Wine Classes sold out quickly in the last go around, so sign up early and often--we hope to see you there!

Master Wine Class: Sake!

Let’s demystify sake and food pairing by tasting through some of the best sake from the islands ofJapan. We’ll taste small production, highly polished sake from one of the oldest breweries in the world, to one of the few sakes made by a woman, to name but a few. Learn how sake is made, how it’s polished, what the regional differences fromHokkaidotoKumamotocan be, and how to pair sake with American food. A whole new approach to sake--it ain’t just for sushi no more! Taught by vinous heart throb (and fresh dressed man) Christophe Bakunas of Cream Wine Company, master salesman of the esteemed Vine Connections Sake Portfolio.
Merchandise Mart: Thursday, 8/14/08, 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Master Wine Class: Wine Flaws (Or, What’s Wrong with this Wine??)

Many folks find themselves confused as to whether a given wine is faulty, or whether they just don’t like it. Learn to identify the telltale aromas of key wine flaws, such as TCA, sulphur, vinegar, and oxidation. We’ll also take a look at the science behind how these faults (so sadly) came to pass and ruin your perfectly good bottle of wine. Taught by The Chopping Block’s very own Wine Goddess, Diana Hamann. Limited to twelve students.
Lincoln Square: Thursday, 9/11/08, 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Master Wine Class: The Great Wines of Spain

No other old world country has made such enological progress in the latter half of the 20th century, helping to secure Spain’s current status as one of the most exciting wine producing countries on the planet. Join Guest Instructor Robert Houde (The Man! The Machine! The Legend!) of Garnacha Wines, Ltd as he takes us on a viticultural tour featuring the famed Jorge Ordonez “Wines of Spain” portfolio. We’ll delve deep into the major wine regions such Rioja, Ribera del Duero, Penedes, and Rueda, and taste stellar bottlings comprised of Spain’s regional Tempranillo, Garnacha, Albarino and Verdejo grapes. No prior wine experience is necessary, just a keen curiosity about the fabuloso wines of Spain!
Merchandise Mart: Thursday, 10/9/08, 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Master Wine Class: The Great Wines of Argentina

High plains desert, exotic countryside, empanadas, grilled meats and Tango. Oh yeah, and perhaps some of the best (and affordable!) wines in the world are now coming from Argentina. We’ll taste the best of the best wines, wineries and winemakers from Mendoza, Argentina, and you’ll see for yourself why Argentina is the rising star of the global wine market, poised to continue its meteoric growth. Taught by Christophe Bakunas of Cream Wine Company, master salesman of the excellent Vine Connections Argentinean portfolio. Not only will you find Christophe to be a wine educator par excellence, you’ll also love his funky eyewear and smart suits.
Merchandise Mart: Thursday, 11/13/08, 6:00-7:30 p.m.

All Master Wine Classes are $65 each. Light food will be served.

Wine is living proof that God loves us and wants to see us happy.--Benjamin Franklin